Popular Geelong Thai restaurant Songbird to close in December

Songbird, the northern Thai barbecue restaurant co-owned by acclaimed chef Aaron Turner, will close in December after less than two years of operation.

Aaron Turner’s Thai barbecue restaurant Songbird will close in December. Pictured are head chef Nathan Lancaster, co-owner Jo Smith and Aaron Turner. Picture: Ginger + Mint

A Geelong restaurant, co-owned by celebrated local chef Aaron Turner will close its doors less than two years after opening.

Songbird, a northern Thai barbecue restaurant, opened on Ryan Place in Geelong in January 2024.

Turner said the restaurant was a “reimagining” of his acclaimed eatery, Igni, which operated in the same location for seven years and received two hats before closing in 2023.

Turner, business partner Joanna Smith and Songbird chef Nathan Lancaster shared a post announcing the forthcoming closure to the business’ social media account.

“After 10 years in Ryan Place, our lease has come to an end and we have decided that 2025 will be our final hurrah!” they wrote.

“There is plenty of time left to enjoy the soulful, mouth-watering flavours of Northern Thailand that so many of you have relished. Still time to sink a few Singhas and share some laughs before we close to doors (sic) on December 13th.

“We’d love to see you, so be sure to make time to visit us on Ryan Place, gather family and friends, and enjoy generous flavours and genuine hospitality before our time comes to an end.”

Songbird is known for its authentic Thai dishes and Turner’s trademark use of Australian produce.

The restaurant will continue to operate as usual until doors close in December

For more information and to book, head to the @songbirdthaibbq on Instagram.

Originally published as Popular Geelong Thai restaurant Songbird to close in December